SYNONYMY NOTE: expect implies a considerable degree of confidence that a particular event will happen [to expect guests for dinner]; anticipate implies a looking forward to something with a foretaste of the pleasure or distress
it promises, or a realizing of something in advance, and a taking of steps to meet
it [to anticipate trouble]; hope implies a desire for something, accompanied by some confidence in the belief that
it can be realized [to hope for the best]; await implies a waiting for, or a being ready for, a person or thing [a hearty welcome awaits you]